Things to do in Derry in December

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Overview

December is a less popular time to visit Derry. The weather is usually cold and breezy, with temperatures ranging from 39—45°F (4—7°C). There are plenty of events to check out and activities to try in Derry during this time. Some of our top recommendations: attend the Derry Christmas Market, take a horse-drawn carriage ride through the city center, take a stroll along the Peace Bridge at night, and more!

Derry has plenty to offer for visitors of all ages and interests. In this article, we tell you the top things to see and do for your December trip to Derry. Get inspired by the events, activities, attractions, and experiences unique to December. We’ll let you know where to explore events based on your interests, whether that’s food, culture, art, music, sport or others.

We’ll let you know everything you need to prepare for the weather in Derry in December. Learn about what to wear and pack for your trip, the average temperatures throughout December, temperature changes from morning to evening and much more.

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Don't take our word for it
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Best events and things to do in Derry in December

Top experiences in December
Attend the Derry Christmas Market
The Derry Christmas Market is a festive event that takes place in the heart of the city, offering a wide range of unique gifts, delicious food, and live entertainment. The market is a great place to soak up the holiday atmosphere and pick up some special presents for your loved ones. With twinkling lights, the scent of mulled wine, and the sound of Christmas carols, the Derry Christmas Market is a must-visit experience in December.
Take a horse-drawn carriage ride through the city center
In December, Derry often offers horse-drawn carriage rides through the city center, providing a unique and charming way to experience the festive atmosphere. The clip-clop of the horses' hooves, the jingle of the bells, and the sight of the city's decorations passing by make for a magical and romantic experience. This is a great way to see the city in a new light and create lasting memories of your time in Derry.
Take a stroll along the Peace Bridge at night
The Peace Bridge is a stunning architectural feature that spans the River Foyle, and in December, it is beautifully illuminated with festive lights. Taking a leisurely stroll along the bridge at night allows you to take in the magical atmosphere of the city during the holiday season. The reflections of the lights on the water and the crisp winter air make this a peaceful and enchanting experience.
Take a guided tour of the Derry Walls
The Derry Walls are a well-preserved example of a walled city and offer a fascinating insight into the history of the area. Taking a guided tour in December allows you to learn about the city's rich heritage while also enjoying the festive decorations and atmosphere. The views from the walls are particularly stunning during the winter months, making this a unique and memorable experience.
Take a day trip to the nearby Causeway Coast
The Causeway Coast is a stunning stretch of coastline that is just a short drive from Derry, and in December, it takes on a magical quality. The rugged cliffs, crashing waves, and dramatic landscapes are even more breathtaking during the winter months. Taking a day trip to the Causeway Coast allows you to experience the natural beauty of the area in a unique and atmospheric setting.
Sample some traditional Irish Christmas treats at a local bakery
Irish Christmas treats are a delicious and unique part of the holiday season, and Derry is home to many bakeries that specialize in these festive delights. From mince pies to Christmas pudding, there are plenty of traditional treats to try. Visiting a local bakery in December allows you to indulge in these special treats and experience the flavors of the season.
Attend a Christmas carol service at St. Columb's Cathedral
St. Columb's Cathedral is a historic and beautiful building that often hosts special Christmas carol services in December. Attending a service at the cathedral allows you to enjoy the traditional music and singing of the season in a truly majestic setting. The soaring architecture and the sound of the choir make for a moving and memorable experience.
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Holidays in Derry in December
December
  • Christmas Eve (December 24)
  • Christmas Day (December 25)
  • Boxing Day (December 26)
  • New Year's Eve (December 31)
Other notable holidays
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Weather in Derry in December

Temperatures on an average day in Derry in December

The average temperature in Derry in December for a typical day ranges from a high of 45°F (7°C) to a low of 39°F (4°C). Some would describe it as cold and breezy.

For comparison, the hottest month in Derry, July, has days with highs of 62°F (17°C) and lows of 52°F (11°C). The coldest month, February has days with highs of 44°F (7°C) and lows of 37°F (3°C). This graph shows how an average day looks like in Derry in December based on historical data.

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Historical temperature average in December
45°F
highs
39°F
lows

General weather summary

Cold and breezy
Feels like
47%
Chance of rain
0.146 in
Amount
22.9 mph
Wind speed
91%
Humidity
7.3 hrs
Daylight length
8:44 AM
Sunrise
4:02 PM
Sunset
23%
Cloud cover
Jacket
What to wear
What to wear in December
With an average high of 45°F (7°C) and a low of 39°F (4°C), it generally feels cold and breezy. There might also be a small chance of rain. With that in mind, most people would dress in something warm like a jacket and remember to bring an umbrella
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Best attractions for Derry in December

Besides the array of exciting events and activities Derry has to offer for travelers in December, we want to remind you of the classic attractions in Derry that are great to visit at this time of the year as well! You can’t miss these iconic landmarks, local favorites, and places rich with cultural heritage. We hope to give you insights and inspiration into the best things to see and do to make the most of your visit. Here is a list of our top attractions in Derry for December.
Ferryquay Gate Derry City Walls
1. Ferryquay Gate Derry City Walls
5.0
(3)
Historical landmark
Sights & Landmarks
The Peace Bridge
2. The Peace Bridge
4.7
(1642)
Bridge
Sights & Landmarks
Modernistic bridge spanning the River Foyle, designed to improve relations in the city.
Guildhall
3. Guildhall
4.8
(260)
City Hall
Sights & Landmarks
Ornate, neo-Gothic town hall with stained-glass windows, a local history exhibit & a cafe.
Museum of Free Derry
4. Museum of Free Derry
4.7
(990)
Museum
History Museums
History museum with multi-media exhibits on the region's civil rights movement & early conflict era.
Walled City Apartments
5. Walled City Apartments
4.6
(21)
Indoor lodging
Sights & Landmarks
Stylish yet laid-back 1-bedroom apartments with fully equipped kitchens, free WiFi and living rooms.
Tower Museum
6. Tower Museum
4.6
(621)
Museum
History Museums
Opened in 1992, the museum offers regional history exhibits along with an open-air viewing platform.
Free Derry Corner
7. Free Derry Corner
4.7
(1896)
Historical landmark
Sights & Landmarks
Iconic gable wall commemorating Derry's time as an autonomous nationalist area from 1969–1972.
St Columb's Cathedral
8. St Columb's Cathedral
4.6
(269)
Cathedral
Sights & Landmarks
Planter's Gothic-style Church of Ireland cathedral that was constructed between 1633 and 1776.
Bloody Sunday Obelisk Memorial
9. Bloody Sunday Obelisk Memorial
4.7
(18)
Memorial
Sights & Landmarks
Visit Derry
10. Visit Derry
4.6
(314)
Tourist information center
Visitor Centers
The Bogside Artists
11. The Bogside Artists
3.5
(6)
Artist
Sights & Landmarks
Millennium Forum Theatre and Conference Centre
12. Millennium Forum Theatre and Conference Centre
4.6
(1489)
Performing arts theater
Civic Centers
Craft Village
13. Craft Village
Building
Sights & Landmarks
Derry~Londonderry
14. Derry~Londonderry
4.3
(62)
Train station
Tours
St Augustine's Church of Ireland
15. St Augustine's Church of Ireland
4.7
(66)
Anglican church
Sights & Landmarks
River Foyle
16. River Foyle
4.8
(46)
River
Nature & Parks

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